Colts Neck still in the dark; mayor worries about deaths

Nov. 5, 2012

Written by

@NTerryAPP

COLTS NECK — With no power or running water, many homes in the township have become uninhabitable, Mayor Jarrett Engel said Sunday evening.

Engel said his frustration is building with Jersey Central Power & Light, which has failed his town once again.

It took four days for the electric company to restore power for the residents last year after Tropical Storm Irene, he said.

“It’s been really rough,” Engel said. “Most of the towns around us are starting to light up, and the majority of Colts Neck is still in the dark.”

The water in Colts Neck is distributed through well pump systems that need electricity to function. Since Hurricane Sandy knocked out power, residents have not been able to shower or flush their toilets, Engel said. And with most homes dependent on electric heat, Engel is concerned, particularly about infants and elderly residents, as temperatures drop.

“My fear is going to be loss of life,” Engel said. “It’s scaring the hell out of me.”

The township is providing some basic essential needs at its three comfort stations where residents can use restrooms, shower and eat hot meals. But a week after the storm, the stations are facing challenges. The volunteers “are tired,” Engel said.

Engel said he also is concerned that larger municipalities with public water and residents with gas fireplaces are a higher priority for JCP&L.

“It’s a numbers game,” he said.

A group of township officials met with a representative from the U.S. Department of Energy on Sunday after Engel called the White House to report the conditions in Colts Neck. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is expected to deliver water, blankets, batteries and other basic needs to the township Monday, he said.

“I am very hopeful that meeting with the Department of Energy is going to turn some things around for us,” Engel said.